About the event
Clash of Decisions is a fast-paced, multi-round debate that pushes you to think on your feet, argue with clarity, and adapt in the moment. With evolving formats, unexpected twists, and high pressure scenarios, every round challenges your ability to think critically, respond instantly, and persuade effectively. It’s not just about what you know, but how confidently and creatively you can express it. Step up, take your stand
and show how powerfully you can use your words.
General Rules
1. Open to all registered fest participants.
2. Topics will be revealed on the spot.
3. Participants must adhere strictly to time limits.
4. Use of offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate language will result in disqualification.
5. Judges’ decisions will be final and binding.
6. Participants must maintain decorum and professionalism throughout the event.
ROUND 1: INFORMAL DEBATE
The Setup: Participants are randomly paired and assigned a side (FOR or AGAINST).
The Flow: Each team presents their case. During the speech, the opposing team can raise Points of Information (POIs) which must be under 15 seconds. The speaker must acknowledge/accept at least one POI during their 3-minute window.
Rebuttals: Each team is allowed one formal rebuttal speech at the end
Must summarize key arguments and counter the opposition
Time Limits
Preparation Time: 1 minute
Speaking Time: 3 minutes per team
Rebuttal: 2 minutes per team
The Twist: Once the standard debate ends, a “Surprise Constraint” will be dropped. Teams must pivot their logic instantly to fit the new scenario.
Time Limits post Twist:
Speaking Time: 1 minute per team
Final Rebuttal: 1 minute per team
Elimination: Best teams will move forward. Elimination will approximately halve the participants, rounded as necessary.
Round 2: TURNCOAT
Format: Participants will be given a topic and must speak for and against it, switching viewpoints when prompted by the judges.
45 seconds preparation time with access to the internet.
Time Limit:
•30 seconds for one stance (For)
•30 seconds for the opposing stance (Against)
•At the judge’s signal, they must switch sides and argue against the same stance.
Elimination: Elimination will approximately halve the participants, rounded as necessary
Round 3: SHIPWRECK
Format
Finalists will assume the role of a clinical archetype or healthcare persona.
Scenario: A sinking ship with only one lifeboat seat available.
Participants must convince the Captain (judge) why they deserve survival.
Rules
No preparation time will be provided.
Each participant must: Justify their importance and counter other participants strategically
Cross-Questioning: Each finalist may ask one question to another participant.
The participant to be questioned will be selected by the judges.
Time Limit: 2 minutes per participant
Judging Criteria: Participants will be judged based on content, fluency, language, and wit/creativity.
TICKETS
Ticket type
Individual Admission
Price